Developing leaders should be a priority for the USMNT ahead of 2026 because effective leadership can significantly influence a team’s performance and cohesion. Leadership in sports manifests in various forms, from players who inspire through their actions on the field to those who motivate their teammates with words. The presence of strong leaders is essential to creating a successful team dynamic, especially in high-stakes situations.
The United States men’s national team exemplifies this need for leadership.
Examining previous USMNT squads reveals a clear link between strong leadership and team performance. Take the 2010 World Cup roster, for instance.
In the critical group stage match against Algeria, which concluded with a dramatic last-minute goal from Landon Donovan, the team featured six players who had captained their clubs at various points in their careers:
- Carlos Bocanegra
- Landon Donovan
- Tim Howard
- Michael Bradley
- DaMarcus Beasley
- Steve Cherundolo
These players not only held regular positions in their clubs but also played pivotal roles that built their confidence, which translated to their performance on the national stage. Their ability to inspire teammates during crucial moments proved invaluable.
They were the kind of players who could shift the momentum of a match. They lifted their teammates when spirits were low and maintained composure during intense situations, whether it was a World Cup elimination match against Algeria or facing a formidable Spain team that was on a 35-match unbeaten streak in the Confederations Cup semifinals the previous year.
In the 2022 World Cup, the USMNT entered as one of the youngest teams, managing to advance from the group stage with a win against Iran, a draw with Wales, and an impressive tie against England. Optimism surrounded their growth as they prepared for the 2026 tournament.
However, the 2024 Copa América presented a different scenario. Many key players had not received adequate playing time with their clubs and lacked significant leadership roles. The results reflected this reality: a group stage loss to Panama, marked by a red card for Tim Weah, followed by a disappointing performance against Uruguay.
The USMNT’s exit from the tournament marked a historic low, as they became the first host nation to fail to progress past the group stage.
Post-tournament, a significant critique centered on the absence of leadership within the team. The squad lacked the influential figures capable of stepping up during critical moments.
Tyler Adams, who led the U.S. during the 2022 World Cup, was sidelined due to injury, leaving a void in the midfield. While players like Yunus Musah and Gio Reyna are still developing, they were not yet ready to take on leadership roles.
Tim Ream stood out as an exception. At 37, he had guided Fulham to a respectable finish in the Premier League and brought that leadership experience to the national team. However, a single leader cannot shoulder the entire burden.
Antonee Robinson, Ream’s former teammate, demonstrated solid performances but is still developing into a leadership figure for the national squad.
Recent developments indicate a shift in this landscape.
Robinson recently captained Fulham in a match against Tottenham, showing that coaches and players recognize his potential as a leader. This newfound responsibility will likely enhance his confidence and influence.
Pulisic, enjoying a standout season at AC Milan, is also evolving into a leadership role.
Lionel Messi serves as a prime example of leadership through performance. While not the most vocal, his ability to create magic on the pitch inspires teammates. This type of leadership is invaluable, as it encourages others to rise to the occasion in critical moments.
The progress of Robinson and Pulisic illustrates the potential for other players in the USMNT pool to develop into leaders as they gain experience and responsibility at their clubs.
Chris Richards, despite facing injury setbacks at Crystal Palace, could emerge as a commanding leader from the back if he finds his voice on the field. The question remains: who will step up to fill the leadership void if Ream is unavailable in 2026?
Top teams worldwide boast strong center backs like Virgil Van Dijk and Rúben Dias, who organize their teams and intimidate opponents. Can Richards evolve into such a role for the USMNT?
While individual skills and statistics are vital, the ability to lead in critical moments is a skill that can greatly impact a team’s success. This aspect of leadership deserves more emphasis in discussions about player development and team performance.
Stu Holden, a former midfielder for the United States men’s national team, serves as FOX Sports’ lead match analyst for its soccer coverage.
